Quck answer
1. Luxurious bedding: Invest in high-quality sheets, pillows, and comforters to create a plush and inviting guest bedroom.
2. Neutral color palette: Opt for soothing colors like whites, grays, and beige to create a calming and serene atmosphere.
3. Ample storage: Provide enough storage options such as a dresser, closet, or shelves for guests to store their belongings.
4. Thoughtful amenities: Consider adding small touches like a mini fridge, coffee maker, or fresh flowers to make guests feel pampered.
5. Comfortable seating: Include a cozy chair or small sofa where guests can relax and unwind.
6. Proper lighting: Install a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a warm and inviting ambiance.
7. Privacy features: Add curtains, blinds, or shades to ensure guests have control over the level of privacy and natural light in the room.
8. Functional workspace: Include a desk or a designated workspace for guests who need to catch up on work or use their laptops.
9. Personal touches: Display artwork, photographs, or decorative items that reflect your personal style or the local culture.
10. En-suite bathroom: If possible, provide guests with a private bathroom for added convenience and comfort.
11. Plentiful pillows: Offer a variety of pillows with different levels of firmness to cater to different sleeping preferences.
12. High-quality mattress: Invest in a comfortable and supportive mattress to ensure a good night’s sleep for your guests.
13. Blackout curtains: Install blackout curtains or blinds to create a dark and peaceful sleeping environment.
14. Air conditioning or fan: Provide guests with temperature control options to ensure their comfort throughout their stay.
15. Extra toiletries: Stock the bathroom with extra toiletries such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, and shower essentials in case guests forget to bring their own.
16. Wi-Fi access: Make sure guests have access to a reliable and fast Wi-Fi connection for their personal devices.
17. Entertainment options: Include a TV, books, magazines, or board games to keep guests entertained during their downtime.
18. Mirrors: Place mirrors strategically to make the room feel larger and provide guests with convenient grooming options.
19. Noise insulation: Consider adding soundproofing elements to the room to minimize noise from outside or other parts of the house.
20. Quality curtains or blinds: Use high-quality curtains or blinds that effectively block out light and provide privacy.
21. Fresh linens: Provide guests with clean towels, bathrobes, and slippers for a luxurious and hotel-like experience.
22. Scented candles or diffusers: Use scented candles or diffusers to create a pleasant and inviting aroma in the room.
23. Luggage rack: Offer a luggage rack or a designated space for guests to easily access their suitcases.
24. Privacy signage: Provide guests with a “do not disturb” sign or other privacy indicators to ensure their uninterrupted rest.
25. Thoughtful extras: Consider including extras such as a welcome basket with snacks, beverages, or local recommendations to make guests feel special and valued.
Even though a guest room may not receive a lot of foot traffic, it is still an extension of your home and should reflect the overall aesthetic while providing a welcoming retreat for visitors. After all, hosting houseguests is a gesture of love and kindness, and you want them to feel at ease. One of the best ways to achieve this is by creating a guest room filled with thoughtful details and a cozy atmosphere.
When I design a guest room, I consider the amenities that I appreciate the most when staying in a hotel – luxurious linens, soft pillows, and, of course, a comfortable mattress. I like to create a warm and inviting space with comfort as the main focus. Adding cozy textiles, such as woven blankets and throws, adds depth and texture while making the room feel more inviting. Extra pillows with different levels of firmness are also a nice touch,” suggests Daleet Spector, owner and principal designer at Daleet Spector Design.
In addition to the bed, there are many elements that contribute to making a guest room feel cozy and welcoming, including lighting, color scheme, and thoughtful details. “But it’s not just about the bed for me. To make a spare bedroom look as well-thought-out and polished as the rest of your home, hang artwork on the walls, use a rug to anchor the space, and create a well-planned lighting design with various light sources,” suggests Spector. “Even if you don’t have a dedicated bedroom and a guest is sleeping on a sofa in your living room, don’t worry; you can still create a welcoming home away from home with thoughtful extras – fresh flowers, a carafe of water, and a new candle with matches.”
Another way to ensure that your guest suite feels warm and inviting is to have a comprehensive lighting plan that includes different fixtures. For example, install reading lights next to the bed, a pendant light overhead, and perhaps a floor lamp to brighten up a dark corner. And if there is space for a desk, don’t forget to include a task light. Next, decide on the mood you want to create. If you want your guest bedroom to feel cheerful and lively, incorporate pops of color. However, if you prefer a cozy atmosphere, a darker color palette with layers of texture might be more suitable. Regardless of the direction you choose, additional features such as ample storage, blackout curtains, and greenery will greatly enhance your guest room for visitors.
Now that you have a few tips to keep in mind, continue reading for some inspiring design ideas that will undoubtedly motivate you to give your guest room a makeover.
25 Captivating Ideas for Decorating Guest Bedrooms
1. Display fresh flowers or greenery.
Image Credit:
Little Glass Jar
There are few things that say “welcome” more than a vase filled with fresh flowers or green foliage. It’s a small detail, but it demonstrates that you took the time to add a personal touch to the space specifically for your guests. This farmhouse-inspired room, belonging to Ashley of Little Glass Jar, features an organic touch with the pale green eucalyptus next to the bed and the dark wood accents throughout.
2. Utilize an empty corner.
Image Credit:
Anne Sage
Prior to going to sleep, or as soon as they wake up in the morning, your visitor may desire to spend some quiet time reading… or playing Candy Crush. Therefore, fill an empty corner in your guest bedroom with a comfortable chair and soft textiles. If there is enough space, include a reading light as well, similar to what Anne Sage did in this picture-perfect reading nook.
3. Decorate with unique, personal pieces.
Image Credit:
Emily Henderson
Although this may not be your personal sanctuary, don’t hesitate to introduce a little bit of personality. One simple way to do this is by incorporating vintage pieces of home decor, which are expertly showcased in this guest bedroom designed by Emily Henderson. The end result is a completely distinctive and original stay – one that your guests won’t find anywhere else.
4. Include ample storage.
Image Credit:
Describe the Fauna
Another way to demonstrate to your houseguests that you are considerate of their needs is by providing plenty of storage space. If the room doesn’t have a standalone closet, make sure to include an armoire for hanging coats and clothes, similar to the one in this setup. You can also offer luggage racks, closet space, and storage benches. If space is limited or your guest room is not yet complete, a couple of baskets can serve as a place to store clothing if needed.
5. Create a small library stocked with beloved books.
Image Credit:
Front + Main
If you want to add a small, considerate touch to the guest bedroom, display a few of your most cherished books so that visitors can peruse them during their stay. Place your favorite books on a nightstand, a bureau, or stack them next to a comfortable lounge chair, just like Melbourne-based designer Beci Orpin did in this bedroom makeover. Complete the setup with a pink duvet cover and sapphire blue curtains.
6. Offer breakfast in bed.
Image Credit:
Our Food Stories
Perhaps you are feeling ambitious enough to serve your guests a gourmet breakfast in bed, similar to this spread of buckwheat pancakes by Laura and Nora from the blog Our Food Stories. (Or you can simply toast a few frozen waffles – they will be appreciated as well.) All of this while surrounded by soft, luxurious bedding… your guest bedroom couldn’t get any cozier.
7. Bring in candles and soft lighting.
Image Credit:
Elizabeth Lawson Design
In any room, ambiance is crucial, and the guest bedroom is no exception. Create an inviting and cozy atmosphere with the help of soft lighting and candles (don’t forget the matches) to promote relaxation. That’s exactly what Elizabeth Lawson did in this bedroom design, with adjustable wall sconces and artisan candles placed right next to the bed.
8. Let natural light in.
Image Credit:
Amber Interiors
To prevent your guest bedroom from feeling like a dark dungeon, make sure to open the windows and pull back the curtains to allow natural light to fill the space. If possible, install French doors like the ones seen in this bright bedroom designed by Amber Lewis. They will provide your guests with a better view of the outdoors and also offer a private entrance and exit.
9. Embrace deep shades.
Image Credit:
Jillian Guyette
Transform your guest room into a cozy retreat by painting the walls in a rich, dark color that will create a soothing atmosphere. Jillian Guyette chose a dramatic jet-black shade with a matching coverlet. To prevent the room from feeling too gloomy, add brightness and warmth with crisp white bed linens, antique brass lighting, and wooden furniture.
10. Alternatively, go for a mostly white look.
Image Credit:
Daleet Spector Design
While many experts suggest using neutral colors and avoiding busy patterns and high-contrast palettes for a peaceful bedroom, there’s no need to settle for a dull design. Incorporating soft pops of color, such as a blush accent pillow, mint green swing arm sconce, and baby blue artwork, like in this well-designed bedroom by Daleet Spector, can make the space feel thoughtful and cheerful without being overwhelming.
11. Install a television.
Image Credit:
Hunker in Partnership With Sonder
We understand that having a television in the bedroom can be a topic of debate, but let’s be honest: when you’re traveling, it’s nice to relax in bed and watch a good movie or two. If you don’t want the TV to be the focal point in your guest room, consider installing it to the side, as shown in this example.
12. Choose practical bedside tables.
Image Credit:
Stephen Paul for Hunker
A bedside table with enough surface area, such as shelves or a couple of drawers, is a practical addition that will help your guests keep their nighttime essentials (phone, reading glasses, and a book) within reach. It’s also a great spot to display thoughtful touches, like an alarm clock, a carafe of water, and some greenery.
13. Provide easily accessible towels and amenities.
Image Credit:
Hunker in partnership with Acme Real Estate
Make it convenient for your houseguests who may have forgotten some toiletries by stocking the guest room with essentials like towels, a clean bathrobe, and slippers. Even if your guest room doesn’t have its own bathroom, installing hooks, a basket, or a designated area where these items can be stored is a nice gesture. Hooks on the back of the closet door can save space and provide a practical spot for hanging used towels or clothes.
14. Layer on the pillows.
Image Credit:
Alice & Lois
When staying at a hotel, you’ll likely agree that luxurious linens and plush pillows are a key part of the experience, right? (Okay, and maybe the minibar too.) Create the same dreamy ambiance in your guest bedroom by investing in high-quality sheets, blankets, and pillows — the more, the better.
15. Hang a mirror.
Image Credit:
Hunker in Partnership With Sonder
While a mirror might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about cozy guest room ideas, it’s actually an essential item that allows your guests to get ready in the privacy of their own room. Mirrors also serve as a practical design element as they reflect light, making dark interiors appear brighter and small spaces feel larger. If you don’t have a full-length mirror, something like the round, industrial-inspired mirror in this space will do the job.
16. Combine the guest bedroom and home office.
Image Credit:
Hunker in Partnership With Acme Real Estate / Photographed by Sam Wadieh
If your houseguest wants to work while they stay, it would be helpful to have a quiet and dedicated area where they can focus on their tasks. Adding a personal workstation in the guest room will make the space multifunctional and give it a purpose even when there are no guests. Desks come in various styles, shapes, and sizes, allowing them to seamlessly blend into the room’s decor.
17. Keep clutter under control.
Image Credit:
Hunker in Partnership With Sonder
A tidy bedroom not only promotes better sleep and productivity but also ensures that guests can easily organize their belongings during their stay. Incorporating warm wood tones and a welcoming color palette, like the sage green, white, and ebony used in this minimalist bedroom, can create a clutter-free and inviting atmosphere.
18. Layer rugs for added comfort.
Image Credit:
Hunker in Partnership With Acme Real Estate
Rugs add coziness and warmth to a room, providing a barrier between the floor and bare feet. They serve both functional and decorative purposes, introducing patterns, colors, and textures while reducing noise. Placing a large area rug under the bed can add an extra touch of softness and comfort.
19. Consider having multiple beds.
Image Credit:
Heidi Caillier Design
Make your guest room versatile by including two beds, allowing for various sleeping arrangements. Keep them separate for single guests or children, and push them together for couples. In this custom-designed bedroom by Heidi Caillier, a pair of Jenny Lind beds, a Moroccan rug, and floral accents create a charming and timeless look.
20. Provide extra blankets.
Image Credit:
Brandon Stanley
Place additional blankets at the foot of the bed, in baskets, or drape them over a chair for easy access. Extra blankets not only add texture and visual interest but also increase the cozy factor. This bedroom showcases vibrant teal and lime accessories and proves that you can create a functional and welcoming guest room even with limited space.
21. Highlight unique architectural features.
Image Credit:
Stephen Paul for Hunker
A nook, whether it’s a cozy dining area or a secluded space under the staircase, creates a sense of security and comfort. If your guest bedroom has distinctive architectural elements, take advantage of them by incorporating them into your design. This woodsy retreat showcases unique architectural features to create a welcoming and charming atmosphere.
22. Layer window treatments for versatility.
Image Credit:
Peter Schweitzer
Blackout curtains are essential for a restful sleep as they block out natural and artificial light. However, some guests may prefer waking up with the sun. By layering window treatments, as shown in this minimalist bedroom, you give guests control over the amount of light that enters the room at any given time. Additionally, layered window treatments add depth and a cozy ambiance.
23. Prioritize texture.
Image Credit:
Black Lacquer Design
Adding texture to a bedroom design, whether through leather pieces, natural fiber rugs, or chunky blankets, is a guaranteed way to add visual interest. Take inspiration from this glamorous setup by Black Lacquer Design, which combines a faux fur throw at the end of the bed, velvet throw pillows, and a plush rug for softness.
24. Use upholstered walls.
Image Credit:
Elizabeth Roberts Architects
When it comes to creating irresistible, cozy vibes, it’s hard to surpass the softness and beauty of upholstered walls. This decorating idea has been around for centuries and is making a comeback, adding style and a sense of luxury to studies, dining rooms, and, of course, bedrooms. Additionally, upholstered walls provide depth and texture, and they also have a functional aspect: soundproofing. If the idea is intimidating, take inspiration from Elizabeth Roberts and choose a single accent wall.
25. Maximize your available space.
Image Credit:
DahliasDay Interiors
The most important thing to remember is to make the most of your available space. If that means converting a couch into a daybed like the channel-tufted beauty in this color-blocked space by DahliasDay Interiors, then go ahead. Small bedrooms are naturally cozy and often provide the perfect opportunity to experiment with bolder color schemes or patterns without overwhelming the visual space.
